Gateway to . . . congestion?

Gateway to . . . congestion?

20 November 2013

Unite’s campaign for recognition at London Gateway received welcome support from locals this month as the new container port was opened for business by owners, Dubai Ports World (DPW).

“People are telling us that the promised local road improvements have not been made,” said Unite regional officer Jane Jeffery. “They say there should also be noise-reducing fences and planting which have not materialised.”

DP World funded a new roundabout on the A13 and widened slip roads on the nearest M25 junction, but the port’s first customers still have major concerns about road capacity. David Mawer of Hillebrand Group told the Maldon Standard the company had to use the port’s rail line because the roads are not good enough.

“I know how congested the M25 is,” said Mr Mawer. “We can’t afford to be disrupted by road congestion.” The company will distribute most of its cargo by rail, instead of relying on the road network.

Unite continues its campaign, which began in June, with demonstrations at businesses in London which associate themselves with DPW and its directors. Last week, Aviva refused to discuss the struggle for human rights at the Essex port, in contrast with its chief executive’s backing for better representation of women in the boardroom through the 30% Club.